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Acne Scar Removal and Treatment
At some point in life, almost everyone experiences acne. For some, acne is nothing more than an annoying and sometimes embarrassing rite of passage that occurs during adolescence, when hormone levels surge. Others unfortunately suffer extreme bouts of acne. Either situation can however, result in mild or severe acne scarring.
Several different acne scarring treatments are available. These work to help the scarred area return to a more 'normal' appearance because most acne scars, like any type of scarring, can almost never be permanently removed.
The available treatment options differ considerably in their approach and what's right for a person will depend on several factors including the type and extent of scarring involved, an evaluation of how the scarring is impacting the person's livelihood and the individual's budget. It's always advisable to thoroughly discuss treatment options with a dermatologist before making a decision.
Causes of Acne Scars
As with all scarring, acne scars result from tissue damage. When tissue is damaged, the body reacts by initiating the repair process and taking steps to protect against infection. Collagen is something the body sends to the damaged area but sometimes the body produces too much. When this happens, the excess collagen builds up into a fibrous mass that ends up becoming a smooth and firm acne scar with an irregular shape. Acne scars also result when tissue is lost and this is actually the more common reason scars develop. Many different types of scarring exist within this latter category including the well-known 'ice-pick' scar, depressed scars, soft scars, atrophic macules and others.
Treatment Options
Injecting collagen into the scar site is an effective method for most people however it's one that'll need to be repeated regularly, about every 3 - 6 months. Once injected under the skin, the collagen puffs out the scar area, making the scar less noticeable.
A similar process involves using a person's own body fat. This treatment option is called autologus fat transfer. Basically, fat is taken from another part of the body and injected into the acne scar, causing it to fill out. This option also does need to be repeated, although less frequently, because the fat will begin to absorb back into the skin.
Dermabrasion is a common treatment method for most types of acne scarring. It's done under local anesthesia. In this procedure, a thin layer of surface skin is removed using a fraise or a brush set on high speed. Removing the surface layer can actually remove some shallow scarring at the surface and it can lessen the depth of deeper scarring. Microdermabrasion also removes the surface skin but does so using crystals of aluminum oxide that pass through a vacuum.
Laser treatment is another acne scar treatment option. Lasers of various intensity and wavelength are aimed at the scarring with the goal of changing a scar's shape. Depending on the scar, permanent results can sometimes be achieved. Again, multiple treatments may be necessary.
Other acne treatment options are available including skin grafting and skin surgery, but these extreme procedures are reserved primarily for deep scarring or extreme situations.
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Acne Scars
Most people with mild or moderate acne will recover from the condition without serious scarring. In cases of severe acne, however, scarring is almost inevitable. But don't give up hope -- new acne treatments can minimize scarring and existing scars can be removed with a variety of techniques.
Acne Treatment Part One -- Over-the-Counter Topical Medications
There are many types of over-the-counter treatments for acne. Most people, when first faced with an acne condition, usually go to the local pharmacy and buy an over-the-counter medication on the basis of recommendations from their friends or perhaps even television ads. It's always a good idea, however, to consult with a doctor before using any kind of over-the-counter medication. Even though acne is a fairly benign condition, a doctor can advise on the best course of treatment and also offers suggestions based on your particular kind of acne.
Acne Treatments Part 3 -- Physical Treatments
Mild acne conditions are usually best treated by topical ointments. More severe cases may be treated in a variety of ways including oral antibiotics, ointments, and physical treatments such as chemical peels and drainage.
Acne Treatments Part 4 - Seeing a Dermatologist
Even though mild acne isn't a serious condition it is a good idea to see a dermatologist if your skin breaks out. You can receive valuable information about the cause of acne as well as learning about the options for treatment. In addition, there is a condition called keratosis pilaris that is sometimes confused with acne, so seeing a dermatologist can determine which condition you actually have so that you are not wasting time with inappropriate treatments.
Acne Treatments Part Two -- Prescription Medication
Many people try to treat acne conditions on their own without consulting a doctor. However, it is always a good idea to check with a dermatologist when you notice any kind of unusual skin condition. Even if it turns out to be acne, the doctor can give you valuable information and advice about how to treat it.
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